Does elderberry affect breast milk?

Understanding Elderberry and Its Effects on Breast Milk
Elderberry, derived from the fruit of the Sambucus nigra plant, has gained popularity for its purported health benefits, particularly its immune-boosting properties. However, for breastfeeding mothers, the question of whether elderberry affects breast milk and the safety of its consumption during lactation is a topic of considerable debate.
Nutritional Profile and Benefits
Elderberry is rich in flavonoids, such as quercetin, and anthocyanidins, which are known for their antioxidant properties. These compounds contribute to the berry’s reputation as a natural remedy for colds and flu, as well as its nutritional value, which includes vitamins, fiber, and other beneficial compounds. Despite these advantages, the safety of elderberry for breastfeeding mothers and their infants remains uncertain.
Safety Concerns During Breastfeeding
The primary concern regarding elderberry consumption while breastfeeding stems from the lack of definitive scientific consensus on its effects. Some experts caution against its use due to potential risks. For instance, elderberry contains sambunigrin in its bark, leaves, and roots, which can release cyanide and is considered toxic. While cooked elderberries are generally safe, the risk associated with raw or improperly prepared elderberry products raises alarms.
Moreover, there are reports suggesting that elderberry may not be safe for breastfeeding mothers. Some studies indicate that the compounds in elderberry could potentially affect breast milk composition or lead to adverse effects in infants. The absence of robust clinical studies specifically examining elderberry’s impact on lactation further complicates the issue, leaving many healthcare providers cautious.
Expert Opinions
Medical professionals often recommend that breastfeeding mothers approach elderberry with caution. While some anecdotal evidence suggests that elderberry syrup is safe for nursing mothers, the lack of comprehensive research means that definitive guidelines are hard to establish. Experts emphasize the importance of scrutinizing any herbal supplement, including elderberry, to ensure it is not only safe for the mother but also for the baby.
Conclusion
In summary, while elderberry is celebrated for its health benefits, its effects on breast milk and breastfeeding infants are not fully understood. The potential risks associated with its consumption, particularly due to the presence of toxic compounds in certain parts of the plant, warrant careful consideration. Breastfeeding mothers should consult healthcare professionals before incorporating elderberry into their diets, ensuring that they prioritize both their health and that of their infants.

What not to take while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

Which fruits not to eat during breastfeeding?

Food Items to Avoid During Breastfeeding:

• Chocolate.
• Spices like cinnamon, garlic, curry, chili pepper.
• Citrus fruits and their juices, like oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruit.
• Strawberries.
• Kiwifruit.
• Pineapple.
• The gassy veggies like onion, cabbage, garlic, cauliflower, broccoli, cucumbers, and peppers.

What vitamins decrease milk supply?

If you haven’t nursed your infant yet, high doses of vitamins B1 (thiamine), B6 (pyridoxine), and B12 (cobalamin) may work to suppress lactation. One older study from the 1970s suggested that high doses B6, B1, and B12 suppressed lactation for 96% of the participants, with no unpleasant side effects.

Is it safe to take elderberry while pregnant?

Due to lack of evidence of efficacy and safety, health care personnel should not advice pregnant women to use echinacea or elderberry against upper respiratory tract infection.

What foods decrease breast milk?

Top 5 food / drinks to avoid if you have a low milk supply:

• Carbonated beverages.
• Caffeine – coffee, black tea, green tea, etc.
• Excess Vitamin C & Vitamin B –supplements or drinks with excessive vitamin C Or B (Vitamin Water, Powerade, oranges/orange juice and citrus fruits/juice.)

Why avoid strawberries while breastfeeding?

A quart or more of orange juice or a diet heavy in seasonal fruits such as strawberries, melons or cherries have been associated with diarrhea and colicky symptoms in some infants. Foods containing many preservatives, additives or dyes have been associated with signs of discomfort in some babies.

Is it safe to take elderberry while breastfeeding?

Elderberry, winter colds & flu, & pregnancy: MANY of you have asked me about the safety of elderberry syrup for winter health — there is no known contraindication to using the syrup on a daily basis during pregnancy (and while breastfeeding).

What supplements should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Dietary Supplements and Herbs to Avoid When Breastfeeding

• Answer: Certain herbals, high dose vitamins, and other dietary supplements can be dangerous to breastfed babies through breast milk.
• Aloe latex.
• Ashwagandha.
• Berberine/goldenseal.
• Bilberry.
• Black cohosh.
• Butterbur.
• Dong quai.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

Is elderberry safe for newborns?

Can babies have elderberry syrup or extract? Generally, no. While elderberry syrups and extracts have been used to treat ailments like the common cold and flu for centuries, there is insufficient research to substantiate their safety in babies and children under 5 years of age.